American clothing and footwear retailers and brands yesterday said they want more workers' rights in Bangladesh as they have plans to source more from here.

Leaders of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and the Fair Labor Association (FLA) said this during a meeting with local garment exporters at the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) office in the capital's Uttara.

A high-powered delegation from the AAFA and FLA visited the BGMEA office to  discuss workers' rights and explore ways to enhance the partnership between the US and Bangladesh in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. 

The delegation was led by BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain from Bangladesh's side while Nate Herman, Senior Vice President - Policy, of the AAFA led the American contingent.

At the meeting, opportunities of cooperation in fostering a more sustainable and ethical RMG industry in Bangladesh and strengthening trade relations with the US were highlighted .

Workers' rights, workplace safety, the labour law and reforms were also discussed.

Several key areas, including increasing trade access for Bangladeshi apparel to the US market, promoting responsible purchasing practices, and the industry's impressive progress in sustainability initiatives were also emphasised.  

Potential collaborations in worker training programmes and initiatives to further enhance worker welfare in the RMG sector were also explored.

The BGMEA urged the AAFA, which represents over 1,000 globally renowned brands, retailers, and manufacturers, and the FLA to promote responsible purchasing practices that benefit both buyers and suppliers. 

The BGMEA also requested AAFA's support in advocating for Bangladesh's trade interests in the US market, ensuring continued growth and mutual benefits. 

The delegation appreciated Bangladesh's progress in workers' rights and the government's initiative to form a labour reform commission and implement labour law reforms.